Praveena Mohan
– The Artist of Grace and Color
Praveena Mohan
Brush, Rhythm, and Spirit:
The Artistic Journey of Vidushi Praveena Mohan
In the artistic corridors of Karnataka, where culture and creativity dance hand in hand, the name Vidushi Praveena Mohan shines brightly — a woman whose life has been an inspiring tapestry of brush strokes, graceful movements, and unshakable dedication to the arts.
While she is often introduced as the wife of renowned photojournalist and Canon EOS Maestro Astro Mohan, Praveena’s own artistic journey has carved a powerful identity, marked by excellence, innovation, and mentorship. As a brush artist, Bharatanatyam dancer, teacher, and curator, Praveena embodies the essence of a true Vidushi: a master who not only creates but also elevates those around her
The Artist: A Symphony of Mediums
Praveena’s creative journey began at an early age, drawn to the subtle power of line drawing, pointillism, charcoal, metal relief, acrylic, and watercolour. While many artists specialize in one medium, Praveena’s studio reflects her fearless exploration across multiple styles and materials — each piece imbued with her emotional depth and technical mastery.
Her signature exhibitions have become landmarks in the Karnataka art scene.
Raasa Leela, her series of micro-tip pen works, captured the divine play of Krishna and Radha with astonishing intricacy and devotion.
Devatha, focusing on the beauty and symbolism of Indian gods and goddesses, presented timeless mythology through a modern artistic lens.
Tribute to Raja Ravi Varma paid homage to India’s master painter, reinterpreting his classic themes with a contemporary flair that resonated across audiences.
Praveena has not only held solo exhibitions but has also curated group shows across Karnataka, fostering an ecosystem where emerging and established artists can showcase their voices. Her thoughtful curation reflects her belief that art is not just an individual pursuit but a community experience.
The Dancer: Grace in Motion
Alongside her visual artistry, Praveena is a dedicated Bharatanatyam dancer, a tradition she has nurtured with discipline and love. Along with her sister, Vidushi Prathima Kiran, she leads Bharatanatyam classes at Adithi Art Gallery, shaping young dancers with patience, technique, and deep respect for classical heritage.
Her dance performances are marked by expressive abhinaya (facial expression), rhythmic precision, and a meditative connection with the divine. For Praveena, dance and painting are not separate art forms — they flow into each other, each enriching her creative soul and artistic identity.
The Teacher and Mentor
What truly elevates Praveena’s role in the cultural landscape is her commitment to teaching. At Adithi Art Gallery, she conducts regular art classes for students of all ages, nurturing not just skills but also the confidence and creativity of her students.
As a teacher, Praveena is known for her patient, attentive style — guiding each learner’s unique strengths while encouraging experimentation. For her, art education is not merely about mastering a brushstroke or a dance movement; it is about unlocking a deeper understanding of beauty, culture, and self-expression.
A Partnership of Creativity
Together, Praveena and Astro Mohan represent one of Karnataka’s most remarkable artistic partnerships — two independent yet complementary creative forces, each excelling in their own fields yet united by a shared passion for cultural preservation.
While Mohan captures the world through his lens, Praveena interprets it through her brush and movement. Together, they have created a home filled with art, conversation, and dedication, constantly inspiring one another and their broader community.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy in Motion
As Praveena continues to organize exhibitions, teach new generations, and explore fresh creative projects, her influence as a cultural torchbearer only grows stronger. In a world increasingly consumed by fleeting digital trends, she stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of handcrafted art, classical traditions, and meaningful mentorship.
Her story is not just one of personal achievement — it is the story of how one woman’s passion can ripple outward, enriching an entire artistic community and ensuring that the beauty of Indian art and culture continues to shine for generations to come.